Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this may not seem like a long time, I’ve gathered various observations throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, known for its wide array of housing opportunities as well as its multicultural communities. Students have plenty of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer various amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the most central areas. London features a robust public transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easier to travel and traverse different zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I preferred to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commuting more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its popular attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation, which significantly lowered rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic groups play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, showcasing a vast array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek some resemblance to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is known for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of culturally rich neighborhoods.
The best places to live in London are dictated by personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.